Hippo Waterfront Lodge & Camping

situated on the banks of the Crocodile River, Nelspruit / Mbombela, Mpumalanga

HIPPO WATERFRONT LODGE & CAMPING is the most peaceful and quiet setting on the banks of the Crocodile River only 10 km out of Nelspruit. We are less than 6 km from the Mbombela Stadium. Affordable, clean, comfortable and fully equipped en-suite timber log chalets and rooms ensures a real rustic and African bush experience. Each self-catering chalet has a magnificent view of the river from its private verandah. Running water, rolling green lawns and lots of indigenous trees offers abundant bird life to this setting as well as visits by the resident hippos.

CONFERENCING
We have conferencing facilities for up to 50 people. A White board, projector DVD & Television are available. The area is air-conditioned, and catering can be arranged.

RESTAURANT & BAR
Breakfast & Dinner is served on our deck overlooking the Crocodile River. A full bar is available. Our conference area can seat 50 people, our Famous Hippo Restaurant can seat 50 people.

FISHING
Fishing is allowed on the banks of the Crocodile River will hopefully net you some Baber, eel, carp or yellow finch.

NATURE TRAILS AND WALKS
Take a stroll through along the banks of the Crocodile River for superb birdwatching, and some hippos lounging in the river.

BIRDING
Ideal birding experience. We have already identified over 130 different species of birds at Hippo Waterfront Lodge.

GUIDED TOURS
On request we offer guided tours to the local attractions within the area. Such as Gods Window, Blyde Rivier Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Sudwala caves, Botanical Gardens etc…even a trip to the Kruger National Park.

ACCOMMODATION
Hippo Water Front Lodge offers the best way to live a bit away from the city.
We offer the following accommodation:  Self-Catering chalets overlooking the Crocodile River for your perfect holiday.  Budget Cabins, Camping Sites and 6 Caravan Sites

LEOPARD CHALETS
These timber chalets are built on stilts each have a double and single bed in each chalet with outdoor covered kitchen on the deck, ensuite bathroom. Braai facilities are also available.
Max Occupancy: 3
Max Adults: 3

ELEPHANT CHALETS  
Our Elephant Chalets sleep six. Elephant 1 has two bedrooms. The first bedroom has a double bed, and the second room has four single beds, perfect for a larger family. Attached bathroom, with outdoor undercover kitchen, dining and entertainment area with braai facilities.
Max Occupancy: 6
Max Adults: 6

RHINO CHALETS  
Our Rhino Chalets sleep four with two bedrooms. Some chalets have a main bedroom with a double bed and the second room has two single beds. Other chalets have two single beds in each bedroom. Attached bathroom, with outdoor undercover kitchen, dining and entertainment area. Braai facilities are also available.
Max Occupancy: 4
Max Adults: 4

BUFFALO CHALETS (BACKPACKER CHALETS)
Our Buffalo / Backpackers Chalets sleep four with en-suite bathroom. They have 4 single beds each and a shared communal kitchen. Braai facilities are also available. These are also idea accommodation for contract worker /budget accommodation.
Max Occupancy: 4
Max Adults: 4

CAMPING & CARAVAN SITES
We only have five caravan stands, each with their own ablution facilities. Each stand has electricity points. There is access to the river for freshwater fishing and hippo viewing. Our famous Hippo Restaurant and bar area, as well as conference facilities for around 50 people are also available.

The Vulture Suite @ Hippo

Introducing the Vulture Suite at Hippo Waterfront Lodge—an inviting retreat crafted for those who value both luxury and a connection to nature. Set amid stunning natural surroundings, this suite offers an elegant blend of comfort and style, ensuring an unforgettable experience. The Vulture Suite features spacious interiors, tastefully designed for the discerning guest, complete with comfortable furnishings and all the essential amenities for a relaxing stay.

Guests can unwind on a private balcony, perfect for early morning birdwatching or savoring cocktail moments away from city life. Whether you’re here to unwind or explore the outdoors, the Vulture Suite offers a perfect balance of tranquility and upmarket comfort, making it an ideal choice for couples, solo executives or families seeking an elevated escape at Hippo Waterfront Lodge.

Room Style

Max Occupancy: 6
Max Adults: 6

Check In Time: 14h00

Check Out Time:  Strickly 10h00

Hippo Waterfront Lodge, nestled along the Crocodile River just outside Nelspruit, offers a tranquil retreat with a variety of activities to enhance your stay.

🐟 Outdoor Activities

  • Fishing: Enjoy freshwater fishing on the riverbanks, where you might catch species like catfish, eel, carp, or yellowfish.
  • Nature Walks & Birdwatching: Stroll along scenic trails by the river, ideal for bird enthusiasts—over 130 bird species have been spotted here.
  • Hippo Viewing: Keep an eye out for resident hippos lounging in the river, offering a unique wildlife experience right from your chalet or campsite.

🏡 Accommodation & Facilities

  • Chalets & Cabins: Choose from timber chalets and budget cabins, each with private decks overlooking the river. Options range from Leopard Chalets (sleeps 3) to Elephant Chalets (sleeps up to 6), all equipped with outdoor kitchens and braai facilities.
  • Camping & Caravan Sites: Six caravan stands are available, each with private ablution facilities and electricity points, providing direct access to the river for fishing and hippo viewing.
  • Swimming Pool: Relax in the outdoor pool, perfect for cooling off after a day of exploration.

🍽️ Dining & Social Spaces

  • Restaurant & Bar: Savor breakfast and dinner on the deck overlooking the Crocodile River. A full bar is available, and the restaurant can accommodate up to 50 guests.
  • Braai Areas: Each accommodation unit features braai facilities, allowing you to enjoy a traditional South African barbecue under the stars.

🚐 Guided Tours & Day Trips

Upon request, the lodge offers guided tours to nearby attractions:

  • Kruger National Park: Experience one of Africa’s premier game reserves.
  • Blyde River Canyon & God’s Window: Explore breathtaking landscapes and panoramic views.
  • Bourke’s Luck Potholes & Sudwala Caves: Discover unique geological formations and ancient caves.
  • Lowveld Botanical Gardens: Wander through diverse plant collections and serene gardens.

🧒 Family-Friendly Amenities

  • Children Welcome: The lodge accommodates families, with children under 12 welcome.
  • Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed by arrangement, ensuring the whole family can enjoy the getaway.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful nature retreat, an adventurous exploration of nearby attractions, or quality time with family and friends, Hippo Waterfront Lodge provides a versatile and enriching experience.

  • Great! Here’s an updated list of things to do within 80 km of Hippo Waterfront Lodge, expanding your guest offering while still being day-trip friendly:
  • 🐾 Wildlife & Nature (0–80 km)
  • Kruger National Park – Malelane Gate (±45 km)
  • Big Five sightings, self-drive safaris, bush braais, and picnic spots.
  • Kruger National Park – Crocodile Bridge Gate (±75 km)
  • Ideal for entering the southern Kruger region, great for lion and elephant sightings.
  • Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Eden (±35 km)
  • Rescue sanctuary in Umhloti Nature Reserve – educational and emotional.
  • Sudwala Caves & Dinosaur Park (±50 km)
  • Ancient caves with guided tours, a fun family dinosaur-themed park nearby.
  • Lowveld National Botanical Gardens (±12 km)
  • Picturesque gardens with waterfalls, suspension bridges, and rare flora.
  • Montrose Falls (±45 km)
  • Tranquil waterfall spot for nature walks and photos.
  • Kaapsehoop Village & Wild Horses (±55 km)
  • Mountain-top misty village with forest trails, horseback rides, quaint cafés.
  • 🧗 Adventure & Scenic Drives
  • Schoemanskloof Adventure Zone (±50–70 km loop)
  • Ziplining, hiking, trail running, and river tubing in lush forest terrain.
  • Sabie Waterfalls Route (Day Trip) (±80 km to start of route)
  • Lone Creek Falls, Mac Mac Falls, Bridal Veil – stunning waterfall stops en route.
  • Ngodwana River Rafting (±60 km)
  • Seasonal guided river rafting in the mountains near the paper mill valley.
  • 🎨 Cultural & Historic Sites
  • Matsamo Cultural Village (±60–70 km)
  • Traditional Swazi culture, crafts, dances, and local cuisine.
  • Barberton Makhonjwa Geotrail (±75–80 km)
  • Scenic geological heritage route – ancient rocks and incredible viewpoints.
  • Barberton Museum Complex (±78 km)
  • Rich in mining history and local cultural artifacts.
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Directions to
Hippo Waterfront Lodge & Camping – Google Maps

🚗 Option 1: Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (KMIA) to Hippo Waterfront Lodge
Distance: Approximately 39.4 km
Estimated Driving Time: 30–40 minutes
Directions:
Exit KMIA and head west on the R538 towards White River.
Merge onto the N4 highway heading west towards Nelspruit (Mbombela).
Take the exit for the R40 towards Nelspruit.
Continue on the R40, then turn onto the Sterkspruit Farm road.
Follow signs to Hippo Waterfront Lodge, located on Portion 41, Sterkspruit Farm, approximately 10 km from Nelspruit’s city center.

✈️ Option 2: OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to Hippo Waterfront Lodge
Distance: Approximately 360–400 km
Estimated Driving Time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours
Directions:
Depart OR Tambo International Airport and merge onto the R21 highway heading north.
Take the exit to merge onto the N12 highway eastbound towards Witbank.
Continue on the N12, which becomes the N4 highway, passing through Middelburg and Machadodorp.
Approach Nelspruit (Mbombela) and take the exit for the R40 towards Nelspruit.
Turn onto the Sterkspruit Farm road and follow signs to Hippo Waterfront Lodge.

Additional Information:
The lodge is situated on the banks of the Crocodile River, offering a serene environment with opportunities for hippo and bird watching.
Accommodation options include self-catering chalets, camping sites, and caravan stands.
Facilities available: restaurant, bar, outdoor pool, and conference amenities.

If you need assistance with booking accommodations or arranging transportation, feel free to ask!

FOR MORE INFORMATION
📞 +27 766840045
✉ info@hippowaterfront.com
www.hippowaterfront.com